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• Marie Patterson had an interesting proposition this year and decided to take the offer.  Don Schatz asked Marie if he could cook the Thanksgiving meal in her kitchen this year and she said yes.  I assisted and a feast transpired for Marie, Jr Patterson, Don and Becky Wegleitner and Gabby Merkel.  Allison Wegleitner and her honey,  Dan Hamik of Worthing enjoyed supper with us and then stayed to visit and play cards.  It was a nice celebration but the guy that used to sit at the head of the table is still dearly missed.  It's funny how that works and I'm sure there are a lot of other tables that felt an emptiness from the absence of what once was.  I didn't dwell on Dad not being there, I just missed him.  I'm ever so thankful, however for the people that were sitting around the table.  I'm thankful to have a Mother that always loves me, even when I'm not lovable, a brother and sister I would be lost without, a brother-in-law that is always a joy to have around, a niece that offers amazing insights to her aunt that tends to look straight ahead a bit too often and her niece's boyfriend that continues to amaze all of us with his ability to stay calm no matter what.  I have a little ten year old friend that gives me more joy than she will ever know and then there's the man that has found his way into my heart through a door I didn't realize my heart even had.  I am truly blessed.  There are many others I cherish but they weren't able to be with us this year.  That's life but I think they know who they are and I think they know how much I care. 
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• Santa Day will be happening in Claremont this Saturday, December 7th at the Claremont Legion Hall.  There will be crafters displaying and selling their goods from 10am until 3pm.  I don't know if you've been wanting to see my baby dolls but I will have them available for you to cuddle as I will be one of the crafters. Santa and Mrs Claus will arrive at 3:00 bringing candy for the kids and there will also be drawings for turkeys to be given away to the adults that attend. It's going to be cold but the legion will be nice and warm and there will be free coffee and cookies and we'd love to see you there!     
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• Plan now to attend the Claremont United Methodist Churchs' annual "Evening of Christmas" celebration.  A free will soup, chili and dessert supper will be served from 5 until 6pm.  Following the meal there will be a variety of musical entertainment provided by talented members several area churches.  This is a wonderful gathering that truly celebrates the "Reason for the Season!"
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• I have reached the end of my "news" rope so I'm signing off.  I learned a bit more about hunting so next week may feature some tidbits from what I learned.  This new knowledge is still soaking in so it wasn't quite ready at press time.  I hope you have a wonderful week!